After various documents and photos of the all-new BMW 2 Series “accidentally” leaked onto the web, and a very short teaser was put out, BMW finally distributed its official release highlighting everything we need to know about the rear-wheel drive 228i Coupe.

The all new 228i Coupe is powered by a 240hp version of the 2.0L four-cylinder engine, accelerates from 0-60mph in 5.4sec, and has a top speed of 130mph.

The M235i features a 3.0L inline six-cylinder engine with TwinPower technology that delivers 322hp and 332 lb-ft of torque, accelerates from 0-60mph in 4.4sec, and has a top speed of 155mph. Both models come standard with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission with paddle shifters

Earlier this month, BMW confirmed that it was discontinuing its popular 1 Series Coupe, which may not have been a shock to some, considering the 2 Series had been spotted earlier in the year.

Handling is controlled by a double-pivot spring strut front suspension and five-link rear suspension with tuning tailored to each 2 Series model. The M235i comes standard with variable sport steering, M Sport braking system and Adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled shock absorbers – these are optional on the 228i. DSC stability control system including DTC and an electronic locking function for the rear differential are standard for both, and the M Performance limited-slip differential can be obtained for the M235i Coupe through the Original BMW Accessories range.

The interior includes standard features such as dual-zone automatic climate control, iDrive operating system (standard in the US), including a 6.5in Control Display in exclusive BMW flatscreen design. The Navigation system is optional and includes an 8.8in screen and Touch Controller. Dakota leather trim is available as an alternative to the standard Sensatec seat surfaces in a choice of three colors. The interior trim strips come in matt Satin Silver as standard but are also optionally available in brushed aluminum or Fineline Stream wood.

On the styling front, we find that the two-door model features a three-box body with clearly defined trunk and low-slung silhouette, a long hood, doors with frameless windows and a stretched roofline. The broad stance is noticeable, reinforced by the single-piece light units reaching far into the car’s flanks in the L-shape familiar from other BMW models. The 2 Series also has a wider trunk opening than its predecessor.

Here in the US we can expect to see the BMW 2 Series hit showroom floors the first quarter of 2014 in two variants - the 228i and the M235i, but not without first making its world debut at the North American International Auto Show in January 2014.

The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price is set at $33,025 for the 228i and $44,025 for the M235i, including $925 destination and handling.